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Calculate your estimated SAT scaled score from raw scores, understand your percentile ranking, and see what scores are required for your target colleges. Learn how the SAT scoring system works and what score to aim for.
The SAT is scored on a 400-1600 scale combining two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (200-800) and Math (200-800). Understanding how raw scores convert to scaled scores helps you set realistic prep goals and understand where you stand relative to admitted students at your target colleges.
The Digital SAT (launched March 2024) consists of two modules: Reading and Writing (54 questions, 64 minutes) and Math (44 questions, 70 minutes). Each section is scored 200-800, for a total score of 400-1600. The digital SAT is adaptive — the second module difficulty adjusts based on your first module performance.
| College Tier | SAT Range | Approx. Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Ivy League (Harvard, MIT) | 1500-1580 | 99th percentile |
| Top 20 Universities | 1400-1550 | 96-99th percentile |
| Top 50 Universities | 1300-1450 | 90-96th percentile |
| Competitive Schools | 1200-1350 | 81-90th percentile |
| Average 4-Year College | 1000-1200 | 60-81st percentile |
| Open Admissions | Below 1000 | Accepted without SAT |
SAT percentiles show what percentage of test takers you scored equal to or better than. A 1200 score is approximately the 74th percentile — you scored higher than 74% of test takers. The average SAT score is approximately 1060 (52nd percentile). For college admissions, your score is compared to admitted students middle 50% range (25th-75th percentile of admitted class).
Official preparation: Khan Academy SAT prep (free, official, personalized), College Board practice tests (8 full-length free tests), and Official SAT Study Guide. Target areas: Math (algebra, problem-solving, data analysis) accounts for 50% of total score. Reading and Writing requires vocabulary in context, grammar rules, and reading comprehension. Most students improve 100-200 points with 3 months of consistent practice.